Thailand and the UK stop massive cannabis smuggling – 90% reduction in just three months

Thailand and the UK have achieved a dramatic reduction in cannabis smuggling, both via air passengers and postal shipments, in a short period of time. Through intensified cooperation, the amount of cannabis sent from Thailand to the UK has decreased by over 90% in the first quarter of 2025.

Since Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022, the amount of cannabis sent by post to the UK has increased sharply. At the end of 2024, the UK Border Force reported that over 15 tonnes of cannabis had been seized in just three months – a volume that threatened to overwhelm resources. According to UK's official report on international cannabis control The number of seized packages has now decreased by over 90%.

Following diplomatic talks between the countries' customs authorities, new procedures were introduced: all packages from Thailand are now checked before being sent to the UK. The result was a dramatic reduction to 1,5 tonnes in the first quarter of 2025.

Operation Chaophraya – airports in focus

In addition to securing the post, Operation Chaophraya at Bangkok Airport, where the UK Border Force and the National Crime Agency collaborated with Thai authorities.
During the operation, more than 2 tonnes of cannabis were seized from air passengers, with an estimated value of around £6 million.

Since the start of Operation Chaophraya in July 2024, over 50 British citizens have been arrested in Thailand for attempted cannabis smuggling by air.

Customs chiefs meet to deepen cooperation

In April 2025, Thailand's Customs Commissioner Theeraj Athanavanich visited London, where he, together with British border authorities and the Home Office, discussed the successes and next steps for cooperation.

Seema Malhotra, UK Minister for Citizenship and Migration, commented:

“Our partnership with Thai customs authorities has reduced cannabis smuggling by 90% in just three months. This is a clear example of how international cooperation protects our communities and stops organized crime.”

The UK Border Force points out that this type of early intervention – already in the country of origin – is crucial to keeping British streets safer and reducing the burden on customs and the judiciary.

Strengthened border controls and zero tolerance against smuggling

Thai authorities have simultaneously strengthened their own border controls.
Between October 2024 and March 2025, over 800 cannabis smugglers have been stopped at Thai borders, and more than 9 tons of cannabis products have been seized.

Both Thailand and the UK now operate a joint zero-tolerance policy against organized drug trafficking and warn of the serious consequences of arrest.

Facts about cannabis laws in Thailand

Since June 2022, cannabis has been decriminalized in Thailand, meaning that the plant itself is no longer classified as a drug. However, there are important restrictions:

• Medical use is permitted with proper licensing.
• Cannabis extracts (with over 0,2% THC) are prohibited without a permit.
• Smoking in public places is prohibited and can result in fines or imprisonment.
• Export of cannabis products is prohibited without a special permit.

Despite decriminalization, cannabis use and handling is heavily regulated. Improper handling can lead to prison sentences both in Thailand and in recipient countries such as the UK and many EU countries.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: BonnieHenderson, Pixabay, original image